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Flagstaff Area National Monuments

Explore ancient dwellings, volcanic landscapes, and ancestral pueblos at Flagstaff's three unique National Monuments. A journey through history and nature awaits!

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Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Northern Arizona at the Flagstaff Area National Monuments. This collective includes Walnut Canyon, Sunset Crater Volcano, and Wupatki National Monuments, each offering unique insights into the region's geological and cultural past. From ancient cliff dwellings to volcanic landscapes and ancestral pueblos, these monuments provide a diverse and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Flagstaff Area National Monuments

Local tips

  • Visit the monuments in the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Purchase the Flagstaff Area National Monuments Pass for access to all three monuments for one year.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during the summer months.
  • Check the National Park Service website for current conditions, closures, and alerts before your visit.
  • Consider starting your day early to avoid crowds, especially at Walnut Canyon's Island Trail.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Flagstaff Area National Monuments are located near Flagstaff, Arizona. From Flagstaff, take US-89 north for Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monuments. For Walnut Canyon National Monument, take I-40 east to exit 204. A vehicle fee of $25 covers entry to Sunset Crater and Wupatki for seven days. The entrance fee for Walnut Canyon is $15 per person. An annual Flagstaff Area National Monuments Pass is available for $45, or an 'America the Beautiful' pass can be purchased for $80, covering entrance fees to all federal lands for a year. Parking is available at each monument's visitor center and trailheads.

  • Public Transportation

    While there is no public transportation directly to Sunset Crater Volcano or Wupatki National Monuments , Mountain Line bus route 66 provides service to a stop near Walnut Canyon National Monument. From the 'Winter / Christmas Tree' stop, it is a 9-minute walk to the monument. A one-way bus fare is typically around $2.00. Alternatively, taxis or rideshares can be used from Flagstaff to reach all three monuments, with fares varying depending on the distance and service. Expect to pay between $65-$80 for a taxi to Wupatki National Monument from Flagstaff.

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Discover more about Flagstaff Area National Monuments

The Flagstaff Area National Monuments encompass three distinct sites: Walnut Canyon, Sunset Crater Volcano, and Wupatki, each showcasing unique aspects of Northern Arizona's history and natural beauty. These monuments offer a window into the lives of the early Puebloan people, the region's volcanic past, and the stunning landscapes that define this area. Walnut Canyon National Monument, located a short drive east of Flagstaff, protects ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings nestled within the steep walls of a dramatic canyon. Visitors can explore these remarkably preserved dwellings and learn about the people who called this canyon home centuries ago. The Island Trail, a strenuous one-mile loop, descends into the canyon, offering an up-close view of the cliff dwellings, while the Rim Trail provides overlooks and a glimpse into a partially reconstructed pueblo. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, to the north of Flagstaff, showcases the landscape transformed by a volcanic eruption around 1085 CE. Explore the Bonito Lava Flow, hike among the cinder cones, and learn about the geological forces that shaped this unique environment. While climbing to the top of Lenox Crater Volcano is currently closed due to fire damage, there are still several trails to explore, including the Lava Flow Trail and the A'a Trail. Wupatki National Monument, also north of Flagstaff and connected to Sunset Crater by a scenic loop road, preserves the ruins of several ancestral pueblos that once thrived in this high-desert landscape. The largest of these, Wupatki Pueblo, stands four stories high and once housed up to 100 people. Explore the various ruins, including Wukoki, Citadel, and Lomaki Pueblos, each offering a unique perspective on the lives of the people who inhabited this area centuries ago. Collectively, the Flagstaff Area National Monuments provide a comprehensive look at the rich history and diverse landscapes of Northern Arizona. Whether you're interested in archaeology, geology, or simply experiencing the beauty of the Southwest, these monuments offer something for everyone.

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